What a rollercoaster! I had planned on making my own dress a while previously (before getting engaged in fact...), and it really was several months of endless challenges and ruthless decisions, but more importantly, it was a huge learning process which I'm glad to have undertaken.
Trying dresses on taught me that I definitely wanted a ballgown silhouette and some sort of pleated bodice, so that it was a simple design but with interest. I also loved Eleanor Tomlinson’s (actress) wedding dress with the big draped sleeves and wanted to emulate those. I drew a sketch in September 2023, and in April 2024 I was done! Or rather I came back to it in June for the belt and bow addition, and THEN it was complete!
As a surprise for my husband, Patrick Kendell-Smith, I filmed the whole process, creating a step-by-step video of the ups and downs, trials and tribulations!
Full Making Of video:
Short version:
Photo credit: Tom Halliday
Farmhouse at Redcoats, Hitchin
St Mary Magdalene's Church, Enfield
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